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African-American History Museums |
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During the Civil War, Harpers Ferry became one of many Union garrison towns where runaway slaves sought refuge. Within the Harpers Ferry National Park are several museums highlighting the area's struggle for black freedom. Also see our Self-guided Tours page.
For information about Harpers Ferry National Park: www.nps.gov/hafe/storer.htm
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African-American History Tour |
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The Jefferson County Black History Preservation Society has prepared a self-guided tour of significant sites in Charles Town and vicinity. A tour map is available at the Jefferson County Museum.
For information: www.charlestownwvmuseum.org
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Baltimore & Ohio Roundhouse Complex |
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In 1842, the B & O Railroad was completed to Martinsburg, which became a major passenger and freight center, and junction with the Cumberland Valley Railroad. All but the stationhouse was destroyed by Stonewall Jackson's troops during the Civil War, and later rebuilt, giving birth to a post-war industrial boom. This architectural and engineering masterpiece is currently being restored to its original glory. Tel: (304) 260-4141
For information: www.travelwv.com
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Belle Boyd House |
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Built in 1853, the Belle Boyd House, home of a notorious female Confederate spy, now houses the Berkeley County Historical Society. Its bookstore carries local maps, pictures and local history books. Its spectacular rose garden is open to the public. 126 East Race Street. Tel: (304) 267-4713
For information: www.bchs.org
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Berkeley County Archives and Research Center |
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This geneological and local history research center now houses the Berkeley County Landmarks Commission, with records on the tri-county area, and is open by appointment. The formal herb garden is open to the public. 136 East Race Street.
For information: www.bchs.org
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Berkeley County Courthouse |
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Pressed tin ceilings and some original lighting fixtures, iron vaults and hardware still grace the interior of the structure, built in 1855-1856. The historic Courthouse continues to serve as the seat of the county government. 100 West King Street. Tel: (304) 267-4713
For information: www.bchs.org
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Berkeley Springs State Park (BSSP) |
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A 4-acre village green in the center of town, with the largest display of thermal waters among Blue Ridge spas, offering baths and massage daily. It also has an outdoor pool, open in summer, a public tap for free spring water, and a museum. The town hosts a variety of seasonal events here that highlight the area's natural bounty. Located on South Washington between Liberty and Fairfax. Tel: 1-800-CALLWVA
For information: www.berkeleyspringssp.com
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Blakeley |
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One of the great houses along the Washington Heritage Trail built by descendants of the first president. Although privately owned, it can be viewed from the Claymont Court driveway.
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Boarman Arts Center |
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Originally the home of Rear Admiral Charles Boarman, who served in the War of 1812 and the Civil War, the Arts Center offers a wide range of art appreciation and hands-on workshops for adults and children. The gallery presents year-round juried art exhibitions and offers an annual holiday show and sale of fine arts and crafts. Free admission. 208 South Queen Street. Tel: (304) 263-0224
For information: www.theartcentre.org
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Boteler's Ford and Boteler's Mill |
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Follow German Street east as it bends toward the Potomac River. The road becomes River Road, with ruins of an old mill on the left and plaques on the right marking the location of a ford that was a crucial river crossing during the Civil War, and the place where General Robert E. Lee crossed with his army after the Battle of Antietam. These plaques are part of a system of War Department markers placed around Antietam National Battlefield Monument in the 1890s to identify the positions of individual units.Also see our Self-guided Tours page.
For information: www.wvcivilwar.com/sheptown.shtml
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BSSP George Washington's Bathtub |
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The country's only outdoor monument to presidential bathing, the bathtub inspires an annual celebration held on the weekend nearest March 18, the anniversary of Washington's first visit in 1748. Tel: 1-800-447-8797
For information: www.berkeleysprings.com
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BSSP Roman Bath House and Museum |
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Built around 1815, the Roman Bath House is the oldest public building in town. Open daily for baths in private chambers. The Museum of Berkeley Springs, located on the second floor, has exhibits about the historic town and springs. Seasonal hours. Tel: 1-800-CALLWVA
For information: www.berkeleyspringssp.com
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Cacapon State Park |
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A destination resort with lodge, cabins, conference facilities, family restaurant, a lake for fishing, boating and swimming, an 18-hole, championship golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones. Miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding. On Rt. 522, 9 miles south of Berkeley Springs. Tel: 1-800-CALLWVA
For information: www.cacaponresort.com
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Camp Hill Cemetery |
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Originally the site of British General Edward Braddock’s army encampment during the French & Indian War. During the Civil War, this strategically located hill was the site of Camp Chase, where more than 16,000 Union soldiers were stationed to guard the railroad. Tel: 1-800-447-8797
For information: www.berkeleysprings.com
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Claymont Court |
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The most elaborate of the Washington houses on the Trail, and the only one open to the public for special events, Claymont Court is owned by the Claymont Society for Continuous Education, which hosts retreats, seminars, and community events. About 3.8 miles southwest of Charlestown on Huyette Road, off Rt. 340. Tel: (304) 725-4437
For information: www.claymont.org
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Coolfont Manor House |
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This historic structure is now the site for many cultural and artistic programs featured at the Coolfont Resort, which also offers a full-service spa, two lakes, and many outdoor activities. Three miles southwest of Berkeley Springs, off Rt. 9. Tel: (800) 888-8768
For information: www.coolfont.com
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Dutch Cemetery |
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Perched on a hill two blocks south of the springs along Rt. 9, this modest cemetery was founded by the German Church in 1777. The remaining gravestones date from the mid-19th century. Tel: 1-800-447-8797
For information: www.berkeleysprings.com
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Edgehill Cemetery |
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Contains the remains of participants in the Harpers Ferry raid of 1859, including that of Capt. John Avis, the Charles Town jailer who cared for John Brown and accompanied him to his execution. Located at the end of Congress Street.
For information: www.charlestownwvmuseum.org
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Elmwood Cemetery |
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Chartered in 1869, this historic cemetery includes about 120 graves of Confederate casualties of the Battle of Antietam. Located on Rt. 480, a few blocks southwest of Shepherdstown.
For more information: www.nps.gov/anti/shepherd.htm
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General Adam Stephen House |
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Second in command to George Washington during the French and Indian Wars, Adam Stephen was a surgeon and the founder of Martinsburg. He built this native limestone house between 1774-1789. A fine example of late colonial stone architecture, it is furnished in the style of the 1780-1820 period. Open Saturdays and Sundays, 2:00 to 5:00 pm, May through October. 309 East John Street. Tel: (304) 267-4434
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George Washington's lots |
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A marker designates the site where steamboat inventor James Rumsey built two structures in 1785-6 for George Washington on the lots Washington bought in 1777. The structures and land were sold upon his death. Located at the corner of Fairfax and Mercer Streets. Tel: 1-800-477-8797
For information: www.berkeleysprings.com
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Gerrardstown Historic District |
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The Village of Gerrardstown, laid out in 1784, was the site of the first Baptist Church west of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Many of the original buildings remain, including the Hays-Gerrard house, located on Route 51 and Old Dominion Road. For information, contact the Berkeley County Historical Society at (304) 267-4713.
For information: www.bchs.org
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Great Cacapon |
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George Washington surveyed this tiny hamlet, along the Potomac River just upstream from its juncture with the Cacapon River. Washington owned 240 acres of riverfront nearby which he prized for the abundance of fine walnut trees growing in its fertile soil. His nephew Samuel bought this land from Washington’s estate for $4999. On Rt. 9, six miles west of Berkeley Springs. Tel: 1-800-447-8797
For information: www.berkeleysprings.com
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Greenhill Cemetery Historic District |
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Among the notable persons buried here is David H. Strother, a celebrated graphic artist and writer who was widely published under the pen name "Porte Crayon". He also served as an adjutant general during the Civil War. One of the earliest black cemeteries in the South is located on the northeast side of the site. 486 East Burke Street. Tel: (304) 267-4713
For information: www.bchs.org
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Halltown Memorial Chapel |
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A late-Gothic revival limestone structure built entirely by volunteers in 1901 for the black community, it is one of the many buildings along the Trail that present and interpret the area’s rich African-American heritage. Off Rt. 340 on Rt. 340/12 near Halltown. Tel: (304) 725-8628
For information: www.charlestownwvmuseum.org
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Harewood |
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Samuel Washington, a brother of George Washington and the first of the family to move to this area, occupied this house in 1770. Here, in 1794, James Madison married Dolley Payne Todd, whose sister Lucy was then mistress of the estate. (Privately owned by direct descendants of the first president's family.) On Rt. 51, 2.8 miles west of Charles Town.
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Harpers Ferry National Historical Park |
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In this picturesque, carefully restored town that dates from around 1747, several themes in the American story converge: Native Americans, industry and transportation (including firearms and weaponry for the Lewis and Clark Expedition and the Civil War), African-Americans, John Brown's raid, the Civil War, and the natural environment. The National Park Service provides interpretive programs that address these significant issues.
For information: www.nps.gov/hafe
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Hays-Gerrard House |
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Built in 1743, this small stone house is one of the oldest in the county. The house features a trap door leading to an "Indian closet" on the second floor, where the family could hide from attackers. A gift shop on the ground floor is open on weekends. For information, contact the Berkeley County Historical Society at (304) 267-4713.
For information: www.bchs.org
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Hedgesville Historic District |
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Laid out in 1832, Hedgesville retains many of its original log homes. Members of the Hedges family, for which the town is named, are buried in the Mt. Zion Episcopal Church graveyard. The Presbyterian Church, also in the historic district, is an example of the Carpenter Gothic style, and dates to 1893. On Rt. 9, West of Martinsburg.
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Historic Shepherdstown Museum & Entler Hotel |
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Established in 1983, the Historic Shepherdstown Museum preserves and displays Shepherdstown artifacts, documents, and period furnishings; it also houses the James Rumsey Steamboat Museum. The Entler Hotel, which houses the museum, is also available for parties and events. The Museum is open on weekends, April through October. Located at the corner of East German and Princess Streets. Tel: (304) 876.0910
For information: www.shepherdstownvisitorscenter.com
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Jefferson County Courthouse |
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Visit the famous courthouse where John Brown was tried and convicted for treason in 1859. The Greek Revival structure, which dates from 1836, was also the site of the 1922 trial of William Blizzard and Walter Allen, coal miners accused of treason against the state of West Virginia. While treason trials have been a rare occurrence in the United States, it is interesting that Charles Town has been the site of two such trials. Today the building remains a working courthouse and is open for guided tours. Located at Washington and George Streets. Open Monday - Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
For information: www.charlestownwvmuseum.org
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Jefferson County Museum |
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This local history museum houses documents, artifacts, and period furnishings as well as a large Civil War collection that includes the wagon that carried John Brown to the gallows. Located on the ground floor of the Old Charles Town Library Complex at 200 East Washington St.
For information: www.charlestownwvmuseum.org
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Jefferson's Rock |
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In 1783, Thomas Jefferson viewed the breathtaking vista that unfolds at this site and later wrote in his journal, "The passage of the Patowmac through the Blue Ridge is perhaps one of the most stupendous scenes in Nature…. This scene is worth a voyage across the Atlantic."
For information: www.nps.gov/hafe
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John Brown's Fort |
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The structure called John Brown's Fort was erected in 1848 as the Federal Armory’s fire enginehouse. It was here that John Brown and 21 of his followers barricaded themselves during the final hours of their ill-fated raid on Harpers Ferry, in 1859.
For information: www.nps.gov/hafe/jbfort.htm
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Middleway Historic District |
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Originally settled around 1730, this picturesque hamlet became a thriving trading center known as the "Paris of the Valley" for its numerous shops and craftspeople. It is also the site of the "Wizard's Clip," a local legend dating from 1783, in which clothing and linens were shredded into half-moon shapes because a traveler was allowed to die without the blessings of a priest. Today, Middleway's colonial charm offers visitors a respite from the hectic pace of modern life--and an occasional visit by the legendary Wizard. On Rt. 51, west of Charles Town. A self-guided tour brochure is available at the Jefferson County Museum.
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Mill Creek Historic District and Bunker Hill Mill |
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The gristmill contains 19th and 20th centuries milling equipment, still in operating condition. Three of the town's original church buildings stand here today.On Rt. 26, 0.8 miles east of Rt. 11. The picturesque Bunker Hill Mill, constructed in 1738 and rebuilt in 1890, is the only mill in the state featuring dual water wheels. The gristmill is open by appointment. On Rt. 26. For additional information: (304) 267-4713
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Morgan Cabin |
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Colonel Morgan Morgan, the first white settler in West Virginia, built this cabin between 1731-34. The cabin was restored as a Bicentennial project in 1976, using many of its original logs. It is a historically furnished museum and is the home of the Morgan Cabin Committee. On Rt. 26, 3.5 miles West of Rt. 11. For additional information: (304) 267-4713
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Morgan's Grove Park |
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In 1775, Daniel Morgan and Hugh Stephenson departed with their troops from Morgan Grove on the famous Beeline March, joining George Washington's Continental Army in Boston, 24 days later. Today, the surrounding area, including Morgan's Grove Park, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The park, adorned with pavilions, hiking trails, soccer fields, and a community pavilion, serves as an idyllic site for public gatherings. Its picnic facilities are available for rental. On Rt. 480, 1/2 mile south of Shepherdstown. Tel: 304.728.3207
For information: www.jcprc.org/page12.html
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Nearby Attractions - Antietam National Battlefield Memorial |
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A tour of the Washington Heritage Trail would not be complete without a visit to the Antietam National Battlefield Memorial. The Battle of Antietam claimed more than 23,000 men killed, wounded, and missing in a single day, September 17,1862, and led to Lincoln's issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation. Open year-round, with many seasonal events of interest.
For travel directions and information: www.nps.gov/anti/directions.htm
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Nearby Attractions - Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Park |
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George Washington’s dream of making the Potomac River navigable sowed the seed for what became the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. Begun in 1828, the 185-mile canal was completed from Washington, D.C. to Cumberland, Maryland, and operated until 1924. Today the canal's towpath provides a continuous trail through the spectacular scenery of the Potomac River Valley, making it a great attraction for biking and hiking.
For maps and information: www.nps.gov/choh
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Old Opera House |
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Commissioned by a Washington family descendent, the Opera House was built in 1910 and continues to present a wide selection of musical and dramatic performances. Located at Liberty and George Streets. For reservations: (304) 725-4420
For information: www.oldoperahouse.org
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Panorama Overlook / Prospect Peak |
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Enjoy George Washington’s favorite vista of the serpentine Potomac River where it converges with the Cacapon River. Here, a breathtaking vista of four states, two great rivers, sheer mountain ridges and rolling farmlands unfolds. On Rt. 9, midway between Berkeley Springs and Great Cacapon. Tel: 1-800-447-8797
For information: www.berkeleysprings.com
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Paw Paw |
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Located along the Potomac River, B&O Railroad and C&O Canal, Paw Paw serves as the western-most entry to the Washington Heritage Trail. This old canal and railroad town offers visitor lodging, campsites along the river, boat ramp, food and car services. On Rt. 9, about 25 miles west of Berkeley Springs. Tel: 1-800-447-8797
For information: www.berkeleysprings.com
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Paw Paw Tunnel |
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Beginning in 1836, the C&O Canal Company took 14 years to carve a nearly mile-long tunnel through Sorrell Ridge, creating a straight route for the Canal. Today, hikers and cyclists can appreciate this 19th century wonder of the world from the restored towpath. On Rt. 9, across the Potomac River from the town of Paw Paw. Tel: 1-800-447-8797
For information: www.berkeleysprings.com
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Peter Burr House |
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The Peter Burr House, the oldest standing wood frame structure in West Virginia, is a rare example of an early settlement period family homestead. Now being restored as a Living History Farm where you can learn about the past, present, and future of Jefferson County agriculture. Open for seasonal events.
For information: www.preservehistory.org/current_pburr.html
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Rumsey Monument |
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This imposing granite column was erected in 1915 as a memorial to inventor James Rumsey, an important American scientific inventor. Mr. Rumsey was fortunate to attract the attention and support of many of the important leaders of the time, including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin, who set up the Rumsean Society in Philadelphia to support him. Located at the end of North Mill Street.
For information: www.weta.org/potomac/regions/region4/rumsey.html
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Shepherd College |
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Shepherd College was established 1871 as a four-year teacher training institution, and originally occupied the old county courthouse building. Today it is a fully accredited liberal arts college, which contributes greatly to the cultural and artistic life of the community.
For information and a calendar of year-round musical and theatrical events: www.shepherd.edu
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Sir John's Run |
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Steamboat inventor, James Rumsey, and his brother-in-law, Joseph Barnes owned a mill on Sir John's. In May 1785, Rumsey hired Barnes to build a boat near Sir John's Run which they tested where the stream enters the Potomac. In 1939, a group of local Rumsey enthusiasts used this event to dedicate the area as Port James Rumsey. On Sir John's Run Road, 3, 1/2 mile west of Berkeley Springs off Rt. 9. Tel: 1-800-447-8797
For information: www.berkeleysprings.com
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Site of John Brown's execution |
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At 515 South Samuel Street, on the site of the present Perkins-Todd House (privately owned), a gallows was erected for the execution of John Brown in 1859. Nearly 800 troops were posted to keep order, including a unit headed by Major Thomas Jackson, later called Stonewall Jackson.
For information: www.charlestownwvmuseum.org
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Snodgrass Tavern, Hedgesville Historic District |
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Portions of this log house date to the 1740s, making the Snodgrass Tavern one of the oldest buildings in the state. During its operation as a tavern, many famous people, including George Washington and Henry Clay, visited here. (Privately owned.) On Rt. 9, 1.4 miles west of Hedgesville.
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Spruce Pine Hollow Park |
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This inviting roadside park and pavilion was once the site of a sawmill owned by the brother of steamboat inventor James Rumsey, where it is believed he sawed boards for a summer home he built in 1785 for George Washington in Berkeley Springs. On Rt. 9, east of Berkeley Springs.
For information: www.berkeleysprings.com
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St. George's Chapel Ruins |
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The first Anglican church in the area, for which George Washington's brother Samuel was church warden, was built around 1771. Samuel's home, Harewood, still stands a short distance away. On Rt. 51, southwest of Charles Town.
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Sumner-Ramer Memorial School |
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Under the leadership of its principal, Fred R. Ramer, the school was completed in 1917. Closed as a secondary school in 1964, it has a room devoted to African-American History and is now used for adult and community education programs. See Self-Guided Tours/Black History. 515 West Martin Street. Tel: (304) 267-4713
For information: www.bchs.org
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Throgmorton's Inn |
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A popular 18th-century lodging place co-owned by steamboat inventor James Rumsey and a cousin of the first president named Mrs. Throgmorton once stood on this site. According to his diary, George Washington stayed there in 1784, met Rumsey and began supporting the inventor's experiments. Located on South Washington Street across from the entrance to Market Street. Tel: 1-800-477-8797
For information: www.berkeleysprings.com
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Triple Brick Museum |
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Built in 1874 by Philip Showers, an owner of the Adam Stephen House, the building was known as "Tribble House" because it contained three apartments. It is now used as a museum for local historic collections. 313 East John Street. Tel: (304) 267-4713
For information: www.bchs.org
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Vanmetre Ford Bridge |
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This stately triple-arch limestone bridge, built in 1832, is the oldest operational bridge in West Virginia, and is of the same design as the Burnside Bridge, which crosses Antietam Creek near the Battlefield Memorial. The Vanmetre Ford Bridge was named for John Vanmetre, who acquired a King's Patent in 1734 for 800 acres at this location. On Rt. 36, Golf Course Road, 2.1 miles east of Martinsburg.
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Virginius Island |
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Located in the Harpers Ferry National Park, hiking trails of various lengths meander among the ruins of a once thriving 19th-century industrial town along the Shenandoah River. A self-guided tour map of the ruins of factories and mills is available from the Harpers Ferry National Park Visitor Center, or online.
For information: www.nps.gov/hafe/virginius.htm
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Zion Episcopal Church and Cemetery |
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The present church building, which dates from 1851, replaced the original Anglican churches built in 1816 and 1846. More than 75 members of the Washington family (including 20 born at Mt. Vernon) are buried in the graveyard. Located at 300 Congress Street.
For information: www.charlestownwvmuseum.org
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